Finding a memory care facility for a loved one who is suffering from dementia and memory loss is very challenging. New Jersey has a number of great assisted living facilities, many of them located in residential areas, so that they can provide a continual living experience for seniors who must transition to memory care. However, it can be really difficult for family members to assess whether a memory care facility is providing the quality of care that you want for a loved one. This is exacerbated by the fact that many people who are suffering from memory loss may simply be unable to remember and report problems with care, or, on the other hand, may suffer from confusion that results in them complaining about care issues that do not exist. For those reasons, finding a memory care facility that you can trust is absolutely essential when transitioning a family member from another setting and into a memory-care environment.
What should you look for in a memory care facility? The first thing you need to consider is whether the facility is secure and safe. Wandering is a significant risk for those suffering from memory loss, so you want to see if the facility has the infrastructure to keep wandering from happening. There are other risks that can come with memory loss, such as failing to turn off appliances, walking away from food that is cooking, as well as risks for the older population in general, such as the slip-and-fall risks that can come with loose rugs or cluttered floorplans. Therefore, you want to make sure that an environment has been planned with safety in mind, without compromising comfort or looking institutional.
The second thing you have to consider is the staff. It can be frustrating to manage people with memory loss and confusion, especially for people who are not trained in geriatric health issues. You want to make sure that a memory care facility has a specialized staff handling its residents with dementia, so that you know that they are trained to look for and handle the ever-changing symptoms of dementia.
Chelsea Senior Living’s County Cottages are dedicated memory care facilities that provide safety and specialized care in a home-like setting. To find out more about them, schedule a tour today.